· BR

Itu

Itu, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Escape to Itu: Where Everything is Giant and Life is Gigantic! Nestled in the heart of São Paulo state, Brazil, lies Itu, a charming city that playfully embraces its reputation for "everything being big." More than just…

#historical town#tourist destination#colonial architecture#culture#festivals

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Itu.

Top Hotels in Itu

Top Flights to Itu

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Itu.

Tours

Explore the Miniature City

Visit the famous Miniature City Park showcasing small-scale replicas of Itu's famous landmarks.

Shopping

Shopping at Plaza Itu

Spend a day shopping at the upscale Plaza Itu, featuring various international and local brands.

Outdoor

Adventure Hike in Varvito Park

Experience an adventurous hike through the beautiful geological formations in Varvito Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Itu.

Currency

R$ | BRL | Brazilian Real

Population

Not Available

Languages

Portuguese, Portuguese

Average weather

Itu

Jan

31°20°

Feb

31°20°

Mar

30°19°

Apr

28°17°

May

26°15°

Jun

25°13°

Jul

25°12°

Aug

27°13°

Sep

28°15°

Oct

29°17°

Nov

30°18°

Dec

31°19°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Itu.

What people love

Itu, located in São Paulo, Brazil, is known for its rich history, charming architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes. Here are some pros of traveling to Itu:

Historical Attractions: Itu is one of the oldest cities in São Paulo and is home to many historical attractions such as the Matriz Plaza, Matriz Church, and the Casa da Praça Museum. Visitors can explore the city's colonial architecture and learn about its important role in Brazilian history.
Quirky Tourist Attractions: Itu is famous for its oversized objects and quirky tourist attractions, such as the giant phone booth, giant hat, and giant wheelbarrow. These attractions are fun and unique photo opportunities for visitors.
Beautiful Nature: Itu is surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful natural landscapes, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore parks, go hiking, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Culinary Delights: Itu offers a variety of delicious traditional Brazilian dishes, as well as international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a culinary journey through the city's restaurants and street food vendors.
Festivals and Events: Itu hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating its culture, history, and traditions. These events are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and have a memorable experience.

Overall, traveling to Itu, São Paulo, Brazil, offers a mix of history, culture, nature, and culinary delights, making it a great destination for travelers looking for a unique and memorable experience.

What to know

Traveling to Itu, located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, can be a pleasant experience, as Itu is known for its historical significance and unique attractions. However, like any travel destination, there are potential downsides to consider:

Weather: Itu has a tropical climate, which means it can be quite hot and humid, especially in the summer months (December to February). This can be uncomfortable for those not accustomed to such weather, and it may affect outdoor activities.
Tourist Crowds: Certain attractions in Itu, such as the famous oversized objects (like the giant phone and traffic light), can attract large crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. This can lead to crowded sites and longer wait times.
Limited Public Transportation: While Itu is accessible by road, public transportation options within the town may be limited. This might necessitate renting a car or relying on taxis or ride-sharing services to get around, which can add to travel costs.
Language Barrier: While some people in Itu may speak English, especially those working in tourism, Portuguese is the predominant language. Travelers who do not speak Portuguese might face communication challenges.
Limited Nightlife: Compared to larger cities like São Paulo, Itu might have more limited nightlife and entertainment options. Visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene might find the offerings in Itu relatively modest.
Infrastructure: While Itu is a developed town, some infrastructure, such as roads or accommodations, might not meet the expectations of all travelers, especially those used to more cosmopolitan areas.

These are general considerations, and experiences can vary based on personal preferences and expectations. Overall, Itu is a charming destination with its own unique appeal, but travelers should weigh these factors when planning a visit.

Itu is a city located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, known for its historical significance and cultural heritage. Here is a detailed history of Itu:

Early History and Foundation

Foundation: Itu was officially founded on February 2, 1610, by the bandeirante (explorer) Domingos Fernandes. It was initially established as a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Candelaria.
Colonial Era: During the colonial period, Itu became an important center for agriculture and trade due to its strategic location. It was a stop along the routes used by bandeirantes exploring the interior of Brazil.

18th Century

Economic Growth: In the 18th century, Itu prospered economically due to sugarcane plantations and later coffee production, which were significant contributors to the economy of São Paulo state.
Religious Influence: The city became a religious center with the establishment of several churches and convents, reflecting its growing importance.

19th Century

Political Influence: Itu played a pivotal role in Brazilian politics during the 19th century. It was the site of the Convenção de Itu in 1873, a significant meeting that led to the formation of Brazil's Republican Party, contributing to the end of the monarchy in Brazil and the establishment of the republic in 1889.

20th Century

Modernization: The 20th century brought modernization and urban development to Itu. The city preserved much of its colonial architecture, which became a focus for tourism.
Tourism: Itu is famously known as the "City of Exaggeration" (Cidade dos Exageros) because of its humorous tradition of displaying oversized objects, a tradition started by the comedian Simplicio, who joked about everything being bigger in Itu.

Important Landmarks

Church of Our Lady of Candelaria: This is the city's main historical church and a significant religious site.
Itu's Museum of Energy: Located in a historic building, this museum showcases the history of energy production and usage in the region.
Republican Museum: Housed in the building where the Convenção de Itu took place, it contains artifacts and exhibits related to the republican movement in Brazil.
Prudente de Moraes Museum: Dedicated to Prudente de Moraes, the first civilian president of Brazil, who was born in Itu.

Notable Figures

Prudente de Moraes: Born in Itu, he became the first civilian president of Brazil, serving from 1894 to 1898.
José Rodrigues Bento (Simplicio): A comedian who popularized the idea of Itu as the "City of Exaggeration."

Cultural Aspects

Traditional Festivities: Itu hosts several religious and cultural festivals throughout the year, attracting visitors interested in its rich traditions.
Historical Preservation: The city has made efforts to preserve its colonial architecture and historical sites, contributing to its charm and appeal as a tourist destination.

Itu remains an important city within the state of São Paulo, combining its rich historical past with modern developments.